Firefighters set to strike for 24 hours

Published:14:00Wednesday 03 December 2014

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All of Ilkeston’s firefighters will take part in strikes on Tuesday as part an ongoing dispute over pensions.

The Fire Brigade Union members will strike for 24 hours from 9am over the on-going dispute with the government regarding pension reforms, meaning fire crews from other towns will have to attend any incidents in Ilkeston.

Ben Keiller, the vice-chairman for Derbyshire FBU, who is based at Ilkeston, told the ‘Tiser: “Everybody is striking at Ilkeston as they are all part of the union - that’s 28 full time and 13 retained fire fighters.

“We don’t want to be on strike. It’s heartbreaking for the people in Ilkeston. If we found put there had been a house fire and someone had lost their house, it wouldn’t have happened if we hadn’t been on strike.

“We don’t take it lightly that we are on strike. “

He added the Government was digging its heels in but in Scotland and Wales unions had coming to agreements.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service said that it will continue to provide an emergency response service during the strikes, albeit at a reduced level.

Assistant chief fire officer for DFRS, Gavin Tomlinson, said: “Fire can start for a variety of reasons, from cooking being left unattended, to electrical faults or candles being placed too close to furnishings and Christmas decorations. It is therefore essential that everyone ensures that they have a working smoke alarm fitted on every level of their home.”